In Breaking Bad Season 2, Episode 8, titled "Better Call Saul," viewers are introduced to the iconic character Saul Goodman, a sleazy but savvy lawyer who becomes a crucial figure in Walter White's journey.
Key Plot Points:
Jesse and Badger’s Arrest:
- The episode opens with Badger getting arrested by the Albuquerque police while attempting to sell meth. Knowing this could lead back to him, Walter is alarmed. Badger is threatened with jail time unless he cooperates with the police by giving information about his suppliers.
Meeting Saul Goodman:
- In a bid to help Badger and protect himself, Walter consults Saul Goodman, a flamboyant criminal lawyer known for his TV ads and unusual methods. Saul specializes in helping criminals navigate legal issues with minimal consequences. Walter is initially hesitant, but soon realizes Saul’s legal prowess is exactly what he needs to avoid police scrutiny.
Negotiations with the DEA:
- Saul devises a plan to get Badger off the hook without implicating Walter or Jesse. He arranges for a "fall guy" to take the blame for being Heisenberg, thus leading the DEA away from the real operation. This plan shows Saul’s cunning and willingness to bend the law to his advantage.
Saul's Proposal to Walter:
- Saul quickly realizes that Walter and Jesse are the real dealers. Instead of turning them in, he proposes a partnership. Saul sees the potential profit in working with them and offers his services to help launder money, manage legal issues, and protect them from law enforcement.
Building Trust:
- Walter is initially wary of Saul, but he realizes the importance of having a lawyer who is both skilled and morally flexible. Saul’s clever manipulation of the legal system proves invaluable, marking the start of a lasting partnership.
Themes:
- Morality and Corruption: The episode deepens the theme of moral compromise as Walter chooses to align himself with Saul, a man who openly operates in the gray areas of the law. It underscores Walter’s ongoing descent into the criminal world and his willingness to use any means necessary to protect his identity.
- Introduction of Saul Goodman: This episode marks Saul's entry into the series, a pivotal moment as his character becomes central to many of the show's major plotlines. His unique approach and personality add a mix of humor and tension to the series.
"Better Call Saul" showcases the increasingly complicated world of Walter and Jesse, highlighting how they must navigate both criminal and legal challenges to keep their operation intact. Saul’s entrance adds a new dimension to the story, foreshadowing the lengths Walter will go to maintain his double life.